Many people who are injured in accidents throughout the state of Florida don’t realize that they may be owed compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In many cases, however, the negligent party or their insurance company may be obligated to cover the expenses of an accident. Knowing whether or not you have an actionable claim can be difficult without the assistance of a personal injury lawyer. The good news is that personal injury attorneys in Florida offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, so their advice will not cost you anything until your claim settles.
Types of Personal Injury Claims
Naturally, there are accidents that occur that may not constitute personal injury cases. If you slip and fall in your house, for instance, you may not have a claim since you would be both the plaintiff and the defendant. There are many areas of personal injury law, however, where you would be able to seek damages.
Car Accidents
If you’re injured in a car accident, you can make a claim against your insurance company. Florida is a no-fault state, so even if the other party is at fault, your company will pay your claim.
Boating Accidents
With 950,000 registered vessels in the state of Florida, it’s no surprise that we have more than our fair share of boating accidents. If you are injured on a boat or in a boat crash, you may be able to collect damages in a personal injury lawsuit.
Commercial Trucking Accidents
Because of their immense weight, commercial trucks present an enhanced danger on the Florida roadways. Drivers have to have special licensure and driving requirements to ensure the safety of other motorists. If you’ve been hit by a commercial vehicle, you definitely have a personal injury case.
Medical Malpractice
Despite their extensive training, doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel are fallible. Medical malpractice is prevalent enough that most individuals who are employed in the field carry malpractice insurance.
Slip and Fall
Property owners or their custodians have the responsibility of ensuring a safe environment for employees and visitors. If you have an accident on someone else’s property—not just a slip and fall, but any sort of accident—you’re entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Product Liability
The manufacturers of products have the duty to make certain that the items that they produce and sell are safe for usage. In addition, instructions and labeling should clearly explain how to use their products. If you’ve been injured using a product through no fault of your own, you should speak to an attorney.
Wrongful Death
The survivors of a person who died due to the negligence of another have the right to compensation. Personal injury lawyers can seek compensation for the wrongful death of a loved one.
Statute of Limitations
In most cases, you have four years from the time of an accident to seek compensation. In the event of a wrongful death, you have four years from the date of the decedent’s departure. With medical malpractice cases, you have two years from the time you discovered the error.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact the Fasig & Brooks Law Firm with your questions.